Omanghana
Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has developed a distinctive public style. Known as “General Mosquito,” he is frequently seen in the Ghanaian smock, or batakari, at party events and public appearances.
The smock is closely associated with northern Ghana’s weaving traditions. For Asiedu Nketia, it has also served as political dress. At the NDC’s 2022 National Delegates Congress, he wore a black smock bearing party colors and emblems. He later explained that he chose the outfit to signal his readiness for the contest for national chairman, describing it as traditional battle dress.
That appearance showed how an outfit can become part of a politician’s public identity. His broad, patterned smocks make an impression in photographs and on stage, while their traditional design connects his political appearances to Ghanaian culture. He has also appeared in suits and other styles of Ghanaian wear.
His most widely discussed clothing choice, however, was made far from home. During a 2015 visit to Germany with then-President John Dramani Mahama, Asiedu Nketia was photographed in a fur-trimmed winter coat that belonged to his wife. After the photographs drew attention in Ghana, he explained that he had borrowed the coat for the short trip rather than buy a new one. He brushed off the jokes, saying he had gone to Germany to work, not to attend a fashion show.
From the symbolic smock to the practical winter coat, Asiedu Nketia’s wardrobe has repeatedly drawn public attention. The best-known moments have endured because he has been willing to explain his choices in his own terms, even when they become part of the political conversation.
Source: Omanghana
